Radley has an interesting posting on the Council of Conservative Citizens over at The Agitator. Check it out.
I've spoken out on this issue in the past – here, here, and here. I share Radley's disgust at these CCC racists getting some indirect validation via Haley Barbour's appearance and photo op. Barbour can't plead ignorance – not after the media shitstorm that Trent Lott's six-year history with the group caused back in December 1998. While Barbour may not share the group's sentiments or beliefs, he knows fully well that his appearance/photo op at one of their rallies gives the impression that high-profile Republicans are sympathetic to their segregationist goals. There is no excusing this. Although, I'm sure some folks will try – like they did when Trent Lott was in trouble a second time.
I have a lengthy editorial on the validation of racist groups by Mississippi politicians in general, and Haley Barbour in particular, on my website:
http://www.mississippipolitical.com/houseed.htm
Also, there is a long thread on this subject on the Jackson Free Press blog:
http://www.jacksonfreepress.com/politics/candidate_detail.php?id=1408_0_15_0_C